Buster Schipperke, June 21, 2008 – March 27, 2025

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"Why is it that a dog doesn’t get to live too long, but he still has to die,…old.*" Buster came to us as a foster in 2023 because Mary, his owner had a major health crisis.  Giving him up was a painful decision for her.  Buster was 15 years old, blind and deaf, but still active. We made the decision to keep him as a permanent foster, rather than adopt him out, and make him adapt to another new home. Our dogs accepted him, and he liked them. He soon romped with the rest of the pack in spite of his blindness, and would bark with joy. 

Buster had two kennels; one in our living room and the other in our bedroom. He could find both of them and would often retreat to his kennels to rest. He was vocal when he needed out, day or night; a real easy keeper. He always was easy to lead on leash for going in and out, until the last few weeks when his arthritis slowed him down. He loved to stroll in the yard outside the dog yard, where he could explore and sniff new smells. 

Susan threw a birthday party for Buster when he turned 16, and he really enjoyed that. Mary, his former owner, was able to come and visit Buster on a few occasions. Buster would recognize her immediately and become animated. Those visits were special times for all of us. Mary visited us just a few days before Buster had his final downturn in his health, and we are thankful that she was able to see him one more time.

Senior foster dogs can be difficult to adopt out. Most people looking for a dog are reluctant to take on a pet whose days are limited. You never know how long a dog will live. Some die young, and some make it past any expectations. 

We always figure a Schipperke is good for around 16 years. Old Skipper made it to 18. Our first Schip, Merky, lived to 16. That number is no guarantee, though. Old dogs are a joy. They don’t have wild streaks like a pup, and they are usually content to sit and provide company for you. 

You love them just as much as a dog you have had for many years, and of course when their time comes, the hurt and sorrow are the same. They become family, just like a young dog. Rest in Peace, Buster. You have been a great dog and a dear friend. 

*Jim Stafford